Troops of the Nigerian Army 13 Brigade in collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), have arrested seven suspected human traffickers in Calabar, the Cross River State capity.
The suspects were apprehended during an intelligence-led operation carried out on Wednesday, in Calabar Municipality Local Government Area.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade, Maj. Yemi Sokoya, and made a available to journalists on Wednesday night.
According to the statement, the operation followed credible intelligence on the activities of a human trafficking syndicate operating within the area.
Acting on the information, troops of the 13 Brigade conducted a coordinated raid on Glorious Amazing Grace Hospital, located in the Ikot Ekpo general area of Calabar Municipality.
During the raid, the suspects were arrested while allegedly negotiating the sale of a day-old baby boy for the sum of Three Million Naira (₦3,000,000).
Those arrested include Mrs Glory Emmanuel (54), Mr Anthony Bassey (35), Miss Uduak John (27), Mrs Deborah Edet (35), Mrs Ruth Asoquo (35), and Mrs Frada Donald (35), all from Cross River State.
Also arrested was Miss Blessing Okon (23), who hails from Akwa Ibom State.
The Nigerian Army described the alleged act as a grave violation of the law and a serious breach of fundamental human rights.
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Following their arrest, the suspects, along with relevant exhibits, were handed over to officials of NAPTIP for further investigation and prosecution in line with existing laws and procedures.
The rescued infant has been placed under the care of appropriate authorities.
Reaffirming its commitment to combating human trafficking and other criminal activities, the Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army stated that it will continue to work closely with civil authorities and relevant agencies to ensure the safety and security of lives and property within its area of responsibility.
The Army also urged members of the public to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information that can aid ongoing efforts to curb crime and protect vulnerable persons.